Strong Construction Sector Challenged by Finding Skilled Workers SHARE ON: Photograph by Charles Deluvio The pandemic negatively affected many sectors of the economy, but construction was maintained a strong pace on Vancouver Island during the last 18 months. One reason is the high level of migration to Vancouver Island that has created a huge demand for new housing to counter the short supply. Vancouver Island Construction Association CEP Rory Kulmala says the number of projects underway here is likely the highest it has ever been in recent years despite the ongoing challenge of hiring enough skilled workers. He says Vancouver Island University and the local colleges that teach skilled trades are active and at capacity, which is proof “the construction sector is vibrant, it’s a stable means of employment, and certainly it’s going to be necessary over the coming years.”